Spanish Counting Hide & Seek
Level 1 builds foundational geography and cultural awareness. 'Spanish Counting Hide & Seek' reinforces identity and belonging.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Around the World
- Learning area: Gross Motor
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Identify country on map
- Follow 2–3 steps
- Recognise flag/colours
- Participate in discussion
Instructions
Materials
- Five large, brightly coloured flashcards featuring numbers 1 through 5.
- Five small stuffed animals or classroom puppets.
- A clear, safe indoor space or outdoor play area.
- A basket or bin for gathering the items.
- Tape to secure flashcards to the wall or floor.
Learning Objectives
- Children will count objects from 1 to 5 in Spanish.
- Children will demonstrate gross motor skills through walking, running, or crawling to find hidden items.
- Children will follow multi-step verbal directions in a group setting.
- Children will practise turn-taking while participating in a collaborative game.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and introduce the Spanish numbers uno, dos, tres, cuatro, and cinco using the flashcards.
2. Lead the group in repeating each number aloud together while clapping for each count.
3. Show the children the five stuffed animals and explain that they are hiding in the room.
4. Place the numbered flashcards in visible spots around the room to serve as markers.
5. Ask the children to close their eyes while you hide one stuffed animal near each numbered flashcard.
6. Invite the children to move around the room to find the animals.
7. Instruct the children that when they find an animal, they must stand by the flashcard and shout the corresponding Spanish number.
8. Encourage the children to help their peers find any remaining animals if someone is struggling.
9. Once all five are found, have the children place the animals into the basket while counting them again in Spanish.
10. Conclude the activity by praising the group for their teamwork and active listening.
Educator Tip
If children struggle with the Spanish pronunciation, focus on rhythm and repetition rather than perfect accuracy. You can extend this activity by asking children to perform a physical action, such as jumping or hopping, the same number of times as the number they find.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can correctly identify the Spanish number word when pointing to the corresponding flashcard.
- Record whether the child successfully completes the sequence of counting to five without skipping numbers.
- Note if the child engages in safe movement and follows boundaries during the search portion of the game.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Checklist: participation, correct identification, completion of task.